About

Aquinas Academy is an independent Catholic school dedicated to providing a traditional curriculum that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit. Starting with preschool and continuing through 12th grade, we offer a rigorous academic program immersed in Catholic formation that is designed to prepare students for the challenges of higher education and life beyond school. We work in partnership with parents to shape students into thoughtful, moral, and well-rounded individuals.

A Traditional Curriculum

Aquinas Academy graduates are exceptionally formed young leaders who love God and neighbor. Students benefit from a traditional curriculum rooted in classic literature, Western history, ancient and modern languages, math, science, religion, and the arts; and achieve among the highest SAT scores in southwestern Pennsylvania.

An Independent Catholic school

Aquinas Academy is a private Catholic academy, faithful to the Bishop of Pittsburgh, Most Reverend David A. Zubik, and loyal to the teaching authority of the Church. Our religion curriculum is designed in conformity with the Bishop’s standards for religious education. Our families are members of many parishes throughout the diocese of Pittsburgh.

Our Patron and Motto

Our patron saint is St. Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274), one of the great philosophers of the Western world and the most influential theologian and teacher of the Catholic faith. A man who combined great learning with personal holiness, Thomas embodies the vision and goals of Aquinas Academy.

The Aquinas motto, Contemplata aliis tradere, simply translated, means to hand on to others the fruits of contemplation. That is what we are striving for — to form intelligent and prayerful young people who have a passion for learning and a desire to use what they have learned to serve God and their neighbors.

"As an alumnus of the school and then faculty member for five years, it is an honor to serve now as Head of School. I believe that Aquinas Academy offers something unmatched in the area: top-tier academic formation along with a deep commitment to the spiritual and moral formation of our students in the Catholic Tradition.

I am blessed to be a part of a faculty and staff that is committed to our mission and to be surrounded by parents who take seriously their fundamental responsibility for the formation of their children.”

Mr. tyler deschamps, head of school